Health experts in India have issued a warning regarding the surge in Covid-19 cases attributed to the detection of the JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron in the country, more than a year and a half after the initial Omicron wave. Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Co-Chairman of the National Indian Medical Association Covid Task Force, expressed concern about the escalating cases, revealing that 30% of individuals with influenza-like symptoms tested positive for Covid in the Kochi region within a 24-hour period. He noted the spread of Covid within the community, highlighting that even his neighbor had tested positive.

Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO chief scientist, emphasized the importance of not downplaying Covid as a mere common cold. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, she cautioned against underestimating the virus, not only due to the severity of illness in some individuals but also considering the potential long-term effects. These effects include an elevated risk of heart attacks, strokes, and mental health problems. Both experts stressed the need for continued vigilance and adherence to preventive measures, emphasizing the persistent threat posed by the evolving nature of the virus and its variants.

Health experts in India have issued a warning regarding the surge in Covid-19 cases attributed to the detection of the JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron in the country, more than a year and a half after the initial Omicron wave. Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Co-Chairman of the National Indian Medical Association Covid Task Force, expressed concern about the escalating cases, revealing that 30% of individuals with influenza-like symptoms tested positive for Covid in the Kochi region within a 24-hour period. He noted the spread of Covid within the community, highlighting that even his neighbor had tested positive.

Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO chief scientist, emphasized the importance of not downplaying Covid as a mere common cold. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, she cautioned against underestimating the virus, not only due to the severity of illness in some individuals but also considering the potential long-term effects. These effects include an elevated risk of heart attacks, strokes, and mental health problems. Both experts stressed the need for continued vigilance and adherence to preventive measures, emphasizing the persistent threat posed by the evolving nature of the virus and its variants.